Organisers of the Brisbane Anzac Day Parade originally announced that bands unable to keep up with a 116bpm tempo could not participate, consequently excluding most pipe bands.

The news that their presence was under threat sparked a strong reaction from the public and musicians alike.

To provide an update, the Chair of the Queensland Branch of Pipe Bands Australia, Nick Tomkins joined Luke Bradnam on 4BC Breakfast saying, “The Chairman of the sub-branch, Kerry Gallagher, was very welcoming, very apologetic for the decision that was made and conceded that it wasn’t the best decision and has reversed the decision.”

“So all of the bands have been welcome to play.”

The announcement follows a constructive meeting between Parade organisers and members of the pipe band community, ANZAC Day Parade Chair Kerry Gallagher AM said, “As Chair of the Parade, I was deeply concerned that this matter had become a distraction from what should be a time of unity and remembrance.”

“The meeting was a chance to reset and reaffirm our shared purpose to honour the ANZACs and pay respect to those who serve and their families,” Gallagher continued.

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Image: iStock/Getty/Lisa Maree Williams

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